Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a transmog system, enabling players to maintain weapon stats while customizing their visual appearance. Discover how the game enhances progression and offers deep customization options.
Exploring Progression in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Weapon Transmog and Customization
Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers detailed insights into its progression system, including weapon transmog for personalized aesthetics and performance. The official website updated on March 1, 2025, outlines player progression and customization mechanics. Associate Game Director Julien shared the development team’s vision for in-game flexibility and character progression.
The transmog feature allows players to alter weapon appearances while retaining preferred stats. Unlocking this requires constructing a Forge in the Hideout, after which it becomes accessible through the inventory menu.
Julien explained, "The Forge serves as an inventory hub—upgrade or dismantle gear here, with more Hideout details coming soon." Players can also craft hybrid weapon designs by combining elements from different arms, such as pairing one blade with another’s guard and handle.
Revamped Progression System
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, Creative Director Charles Benoit previewed AC Shadows’ combat and progression. The latest update expands on these mechanics, detailing how players advance through the game.
Julien discussed dual-protagonist development: "Feudal Japan’s contrasting archetypes—shinobi and samurai—required fresh progression approaches while honoring martial arts philosophy."
Mastery Trees and Skill Development
Naoe and Yasuke each possess unique mastery trees reflecting their roles—stealth-focused for the shinobi, strength-oriented for the samurai.
"Mastery trees encourage specialization," Julien noted. "Investing points unlocks weapon-specific bonuses that compound your expertise." Ability unlocks introduce combat variations, though some require achieving Knowledge Ranks through cultural activities like temple exploration, shrine prayers, or martial arts training.
Playstyle Tailoring
AC Shadows enables diverse character builds through equipment perks that modify stats, inflict status effects, or alter combat conditions. While Naoe excels in agile hit-and-run tactics, Yasuke can adopt stealth or ranged configurations using specialized perks.
With extensive customization revealed in recent previews, anticipation builds for the March 20, 2025 launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For ongoing updates, follow our coverage below.
